Black and South Asian music events in London are subject to disproportionate cancellations, restrictions, and licensing barriers compared to white events, according to a two-year investigation into racial inequality within the capital's live music industry.
The Race Equality in Music Event Licensing (REMEL) report, led by Black Lives in Music, estimates that these issues, including cancellations and events prevented from taking place, cost London between £127 million and £141 million annually. Projected losses are expected to exceed £650 million over five years.
The report found that genres such as Afrobeats, drill, and dancehall are frequently labelled as "high risk" despite a lack of credible evidence. In contrast, indie, pop, and rock events face less scrutiny. Other events, including reggae gatherings for older audiences, jazz nights, and community events, also face stringent restrictions.
The study, commissioned by the mayor's office, involved collaboration with the Greater London Authority (GLA), the Metropolitan Police Service, UK Music, LIVE, and the Musicians' Union. It raises concerns about the use of unverified police intelligence, with promoters reporting cancellations based on undisclosed information or unrelated incidents.
Charisse Beaumont, chief executive of Black Lives in Music, stated that while the investigation focused on London, the problems are nationwide. The report makes 19 recommendations, including calls for more transparent, evidence-based licensing decisions and an independent review.
Met police commander Neerav Patel said the force would carefully consider the report's findings, maintaining a focus on fair, evidence-based contributions to the licensing process.